Outer Space
Outer space in games transcends mere setting, serving as a canvas for isolation and discovery. It often frames survival mechanics—managing oxygen, resources, and hostile environments—while evoking cosmic horror or awe through vast emptiness. Symbolically, it represents the unknown frontier, driving exploration narratives in titles like 'No Man's Sky' or 'Elite Dangerous'. Design-wise, zero-gravity physics and celestial navigation challenge players, turning space into both a playground and a perilous expanse. This thematic use emphasizes humanity's smallness against the infinite, making every journey a test of resilience and curiosity.